Quick Analysis
CVO Street Glide & Road Glide
15.0 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Breakout
6.0 pts
Unweighted: 6 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air-cooled | Air-cooled |
| Displacement | 1,977 cc | 1,923 cc |
| Engine Type | Milwaukee-Eight® VVT 121 V-Twin | Milwaukee-Eight® 117 V-Twin |
| Power | 116.6 PS @ 5020 rpm | 104.69 @ 5020 rpm |
| Torque | 189 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | 168 Nm @ 3,500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22.7 litres | 18.9 litres |
| Mileage | — | 17 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 380 | 309 |
| Seat Height | 715 | 665 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual-channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Double Disc | Disc |
| Front Suspension | 47 mm Inverted 1x1 Front Forks | Hidden, free piston, coil-over monoshock, 43mm stroke, hydraulic preload adjustment |
| Rear Brake | Disc | Disc |
| Rear Suspension | Dual adjustable emulsions suspension with remote preload adjustment on the left shock, and threaded preload on the right shock | Dual-bending valve 49 mm telescopic with aluminum fork triple clamps, dual rate spring |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 130/60 B19 | 130/60 B21 |
| Rear Tyre | 180/55 B18 | 240/40 R18 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Cast aluminum | Cast aluminum (26-spoke) |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED (signature lighting) | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Poison-berry.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Centerline.jpeg |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Raven-fade.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Firestorm.jpeg |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gray.jpeg |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Red.jpeg |
| Cluster | 312 mm TFT touchscreen | Analog speedo with LCD inset |
| Color Options | Raven Fade | #2C2C2E Poison Berry | #8A2F6B Blue Streak | #1F4FA3 | Billiard Gray | #6B7074 Vivid Black | #0F0F10 Centerline | #D8A628 Brilliant Red | #A01824 Midnight Firestorm | #1A1A1A |
| Cons | Weight Is Always Part of the Experience – Despite refinements to the chassis and engine, these remain large touring motorcycles that require effort when manoeuvring at walking pace or parking. Purchase Price Places Them in a Very Exclusive Segment – The CVO range sits at the top of Harley-Davidson's lineup and costs significantly more than standard touring models. The Size Can Be Limiting in Urban Environments – Dense traffic, narrow roads, and tight parking spaces highlight the physical dimensions of the motorcycles. Premium Paint Requires Care – The complex paint finishes are a major part of the motorcycles' appeal, but they can also make owners more cautious about scratches, chips, and cosmetic damage. Engine Heat Is Still Noticeable in Slow Traffic – Although modern engine management has improved thermal control, a large-capacity V-twin still generates noticeable heat during prolonged stop-and-go riding. Most of Their Strengths Are Best Appreciated on Open Roads – Features such as the fairing, luggage capacity, and touring ergonomics become less relevant during short urban rides. Replacement Parts and Accessories Can Be Expensive – Premium components and model-specific parts typically cost more than those used on standard motorcycles. The Feature List Can Feel Overwhelming to Some Riders – Compared with traditional Harley-Davidsons, the amount of technology and menu-based customization is considerably greater. | Handling Prioritises Style Over Agility – The long wheelbase and wide rear tyre can make the motorcycle feel less nimble than other cruisers when changing direction quickly. Limited Cornering Clearance – Riders can reach the limits of the footpegs earlier than expected when cornering aggressively. Not Designed for Touring – The stock setup lacks wind protection, luggage capacity, and touring-oriented equipment. Wide Rear Tyre Influences Low-Speed Handling – The 240-section rear tyre can make the motorcycle feel heavier during slow-speed manoeuvres and tighter turns. Minimal Pillion Comfort – Passenger accommodation is secondary to the motorcycle's styling-focused design. Fuel Tank Capacity Is Modest for Long Trips – While suitable for cruising, the fuel tank is smaller than those found on dedicated touring motorcycles. Premium Ownership Costs – Insurance, servicing, tyres, accessories, and replacement parts can represent a significant expense. Engine Heat Can Be Noticeable in Traffic – The large V-twin engine can generate considerable heat during prolonged stop-and-go riding. Limited Practicality – Storage options, weather protection, and everyday utility are not major priorities in the Breakout's design. Requires Familiarity at Low Speeds – The combination of weight, wheelbase, and rear tyre width can require an adjustment period for riders unfamiliar with large cruisers. |
| Detailed Overview | The CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide sit at the top of Harley-Davidson’s touring range. While they share their foundations with the standard Street Glide and Road Glide, the CVO versions are built around a more extensive specification list, additional equipment, and exclusive finishes. Mechanically, the two motorcycles are very closely related, with the main distinction continuing to be the fairing design. The Street Glide uses Harley-Davidson’s Batwing fairing, mounted directly to the forks, while the Road Glide uses the Sharknose fairing that is attached to the frame. That difference affects the appearance of the motorcycles and contributes to subtle changes in steering feel and wind management, but the overall purpose remains the same. At the centre of both motorcycles is the Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 engine. With a displacement of 1,977cc, it is one of the largest engines currently used in Harley-Davidson’s production motorcycles. Unlike earlier generations of large-capacity V-twins that relied on a relatively fixed valve setup, this engine incorporates Variable Valve Timing (VVT). The system continuously adjusts valve timing depending on engine speed and load, allowing the engine to operate differently across various riding conditions. A six-speed transmission transfers power to the rear wheel, and the engine remains a defining part of the motorcycles’ overall character due to both its size and configuration. The touring chassis underneath is designed around stability, passenger accommodation, and luggage carrying capability. Large dimensions and a substantial wheelbase contribute to the motorcycles’ presence on the road, while suspension components are tuned to support the weight of the machine, rider, passenger, and luggage. The setup is intended to maintain composure during extended highway use rather than prioritize rapid direction changes or sporty handling characteristics. One of the most visible differences between the CVO models and Harley-Davidson’s smaller motorcycles is the level of equipment integrated into the design. Both motorcycles feature hard saddlebags that form part of the bodywork rather than appearing as separate accessories. These storage compartments are designed to carry luggage while maintaining the motorcycles’ touring-focused appearance. Passenger accommodation is also a significant consideration, with large seats and ergonomics developed around long-distance travel. Technology plays a much larger role than it did on Harley-Davidson touring motorcycles of previous generations. A large TFT display serves as the central interface for navigation, vehicle information, media controls, and smartphone connectivity. Riders can interact with various settings through the display, while multiple electronic rider-assistance systems operate in the background. These include cornering-sensitive ABS, traction control, drag-torque slip control, hill-hold control, tyre-pressure monitoring, and selectable ride modes. Rather than existing as isolated features, these systems are integrated into the motorcycle’s broader electronic architecture. The motorcycles carry a fuel tank with a capacity of approximately 22.7 litres, reflecting their intended use as long-distance touring machines. Lighting systems use modern LED technology throughout, while premium audio components are incorporated into the fairing. These audio systems form part of the touring experience and are integrated directly into the motorcycles rather than being added as aftermarket accessories. Although the CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide share most of their major specifications, the Batwing and Sharknose fairings remain the defining visual and functional distinction between them. Beyond that difference, both motorcycles combine a large-capacity V-twin engine, touring-oriented chassis, integrated luggage, extensive electronic rider aids, and a substantial amount of onboard technology. Their specifications are arranged around the requirements of long-distance road travel, carrying both rider and passenger while accommodating luggage and electronic conveniences within a single touring platform. | The Harley-Davidson Breakout is a motorcycle that takes much of its inspiration from custom drag-style cruisers. Its proportions are noticeably different from those of conventional cruisers, with a long wheelbase, stretched fuel tank, low seat height, and an exceptionally wide rear tyre. These design choices play a major role in shaping both the motorcycle’s appearance and riding characteristics. Within Harley-Davidson’s lineup, the Breakout is part of the Softail family, sharing its underlying platform with several other models while maintaining a distinct visual identity focused on custom-cruiser styling. Power comes from Harley-Davidson’s Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, a large-capacity V-twin designed around strong low- and mid-range torque. Unlike engines that rely on high engine speeds to deliver performance, the Milwaukee-Eight develops much of its pulling power lower in the rev range. This affects the way the motorcycle accelerates and responds to throttle inputs, particularly during relaxed road riding and highway cruising. The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission, allowing the motorcycle to operate at relatively low engine speeds while travelling at highway velocities. Fuel injection manages fuel delivery and throttle response under varying riding conditions. The Softail chassis forms the structural foundation of the Breakout. One of the defining elements of the Softail platform is its hidden rear monoshock suspension system. Although the motorcycle visually resembles a traditional hardtail cruiser, the concealed rear suspension provides wheel travel and damping for road use. At the front, conventional telescopic forks handle suspension duties. Together, the suspension components are configured to support the motorcycle’s low stance while maintaining ride control across different road surfaces. A significant part of the Breakout’s visual and mechanical character comes from its rear wheel setup. The motorcycle uses a wide 240-section rear tyre, which is considerably larger than what is found on most standard motorcycles. This tyre contributes to the motorcycle’s appearance and influences handling characteristics, particularly at lower speeds and during directional changes. The front wheel adopts a narrower profile, creating a visual contrast that reinforces the stretched custom-cruiser design. Braking is handled by disc brakes at both ends, supported by modern electronic safety systems. Recent versions of the Breakout include ABS and traction control as standard equipment. Depending on market and specification, additional rider-assistance features such as selectable riding modes and cornering-sensitive electronic systems may also be available. These technologies work through onboard sensors and are intended to assist with braking and traction management under different riding conditions. The riding position reflects the motorcycle’s cruiser-oriented design. Forward-mounted foot controls place the rider’s legs in a stretched-out position, while the handlebar is positioned to allow a relatively relaxed upper-body posture. The seat height is approximately 665 mm, making it one of the lower motorcycles in Harley-Davidson’s range. This low seating position contributes to both the motorcycle’s styling and rider accessibility. The Breakout carries an 18.9-litre fuel tank integrated into its elongated fuel tank design. Lighting functions are handled by LED units, and the motorcycle incorporates a compact digital display for essential riding information. Compared to Harley-Davidson’s touring motorcycles, instrumentation remains relatively straightforward, focusing primarily on core vehicle data rather than extensive infotainment functions. With its Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine, Softail chassis, hidden rear suspension, wide rear tyre, and stretched cruiser proportions, the Harley-Davidson Breakout represents a modern interpretation of the factory custom cruiser concept. Its specifications and layout are centered around low-slung styling, strong torque delivery, and traditional V-twin cruiser architecture while incorporating contemporary electronic safety systems and modern engineering solutions. |
| Expert Review | The CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide are less about introducing a fundamentally different riding experience and more about showing what Harley-Davidson's touring platform looks like when fitted with the company's highest-specification components and finishes. Beneath the exclusive paintwork, upgraded audio systems, and model-specific details, both motorcycles retain the core characteristics of Harley-Davidson's touring family. The Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 engine brings a broader spread of performance than earlier touring engines, while the latest electronics package introduces a level of rider assistance and connectivity that would have been uncommon on Harley-Davidson motorcycles a decade ago. The distinction between the two models still comes primarily from their fairing designs. The Street Glide's fork-mounted Batwing fairing contributes to a different steering feel than the Road Glide's frame-mounted Sharknose setup, and riders often have strong preferences between the two approaches. Beyond that, both motorcycles are shaped by the same priorities: long-distance travel, rider comfort, luggage capacity, and highway stability. Their size, weight, and cost remain significant parts of the ownership experience, and those characteristics are difficult to separate from the motorcycles themselves. Rather than redefining the touring formula, the CVO models refine it through additional equipment, upgraded finishes, and a more comprehensive feature set., 4.7, MotoAutiv Team | The Breakout is one of those motorcycles where the styling largely dictates the riding experience. Everything about it, from the stretched profile to the enormous rear tyre, is designed to create a particular visual impact, and that comes with certain compromises. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine suits the motorcycle well, delivering strong torque with very little effort and making relaxed cruising feel natural. On open roads, the Breakout feels stable and unhurried, encouraging a laid-back riding style rather than aggressive cornering. The long wheelbase and wide rear tyre contribute heavily to its character, but they also make the bike feel less agile than some other cruisers when the road becomes tight or technical. Harley-Davidson has also incorporated modern electronics and rider-assistance systems, helping the motorcycle feel more contemporary beneath its traditional cruiser appearance. The Breakout is best understood as a factory custom cruiser rather than an all-round motorcycle. Its priorities are visual presence, straight-line performance, and relaxed cruising, with practicality and outright handling taking a secondary role., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What does CVO stand for? A: CVO stands for Custom Vehicle Operations, Harley-Davidson's factory-custom division responsible for producing limited-production, premium-specification motorcycles. Q: What is the difference between the CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide? A: The primary difference is the fairing design. The CVO Street Glide uses a fork-mounted Batwing fairing, while the CVO Road Glide uses a frame-mounted Sharknose fairing. The engine, electronics package, and overall touring purpose are largely similar. Q: Which engine powers the CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide? A: Both motorcycles use the Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 V-twin engine with a displacement of approximately 1,977cc. Q: What does VVT mean? A: VVT stands for Variable Valve Timing, a system that adjusts valve operation to improve performance, efficiency, and torque delivery across different engine speeds. Q: Are the CVO models more powerful than standard Street Glide and Road Glide models? A: Yes. The CVO models receive the larger Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 engine, while standard models use smaller versions of the Milwaukee-Eight engine. Q: Do the CVO models come with navigation? A: Yes. Both motorcycles feature a large TFT display with integrated navigation, smartphone connectivity, and infotainment functions. Q: Do they have cruise control? A: Yes. Electronic cruise control is standard equipment. Q: Are saddlebags included as standard? A: Yes. Integrated hard saddlebags are part of the standard touring package. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The fuel tank capacity is approximately 22.7 litres. Q: Do the motorcycles have ride modes? A: Yes. Multiple ride modes are available, allowing riders to alter throttle response and electronic intervention settings. Q: Are the CVO models comfortable for two-up touring? A: Yes. The seating layout, passenger accommodations, luggage capacity, and touring ergonomics are designed with long-distance two-up riding in mind. Q: Do they include rider-assistance systems? A: Yes. Features include cornering-enhanced ABS, traction control, drag-torque slip control, hill-hold control, tyre-pressure monitoring, and other electronic rider aids. Q: What is the approximate kerb weight? A: Depending on specification, the motorcycles weigh approximately 380–400 kg in running condition. Q: Can they be used for daily commuting? A: They can be ridden daily, but their size, weight, and touring-focused design make them better suited to open roads and highway travel than dense urban traffic. Q: What body type do the CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide belong to? A: Both are classified as Touring Motorcycles, more specifically Luxury Grand Touring Motorcycles. Q: Are CVO motorcycles limited-production models? A: Yes. CVO motorcycles are produced in smaller numbers than Harley-Davidson's standard models and typically feature exclusive paint schemes, finishes, and equipment packages. | Q: What type of motorcycle is the Harley-Davidson Breakout? A: The Breakout is classified as a power cruiser, combining custom-inspired styling with a large-capacity V-twin engine and relaxed cruiser ergonomics. Q: Which engine powers the Harley-Davidson Breakout? A: The motorcycle uses the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Q: Is the Breakout designed for touring? A: Not primarily. While it can cover long distances, the motorcycle is focused more on cruising and styling than dedicated touring comfort. Q: What is the seat height of the Breakout? A: The seat height is approximately 665 mm, making it one of the lower motorcycles in Harley-Davidson's lineup. Q: Why does the Breakout have such a wide rear tyre? A: The 240-section rear tyre is a major part of the motorcycle's custom-cruiser styling and contributes significantly to its visual presence. Q: Does the wide rear tyre affect handling? A: Yes. It contributes to the Breakout's distinctive look but can make low-speed manoeuvres and direction changes feel heavier than on narrower-tyred motorcycles. Q: Does the Breakout have riding modes? A: Yes. Recent models include selectable ride modes and electronic rider-assistance systems. Q: Does the Breakout come with cruise control? A: Depending on market and model year, cruise control may be available as standard or optional equipment. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Breakout? A: The motorcycle is equipped with a fuel tank of approximately 18.9 litres. Q: Is the Breakout suitable for beginners? A: Due to its size, weight, torque output, and wide rear tyre, it is generally better suited to riders with some experience. Q: How is the Breakout different from the Fat Boy? A: The Breakout focuses more on custom-cruiser styling with a stretched profile and wider rear tyre, while the Fat Boy offers a broader, more traditional cruiser character. Q: Is the Breakout comfortable for a passenger? A: Passenger accommodation is relatively limited in stock form, as the motorcycle's design prioritizes its solo-rider custom-cruiser appearance. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Harley-Davidson Breakout? A: The motorcycle weighs approximately 310 kg in running condition, depending on specification. Q: Does the Breakout have smartphone connectivity? A: The feature set is relatively simple compared to Harley-Davidson's touring motorcycles, and smartphone integration varies by market and model year. Q: What body type does the Breakout belong to? A: It is generally categorized as a power cruiser or custom cruiser, designed around strong torque delivery, relaxed ergonomics, and custom-inspired styling. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 6303142 | STD | 3179000 |
| Pros | Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 Engine Adds Another Layer of Performance – The 1,977cc engine delivers strong torque throughout the rev range, but the addition of variable valve timing broadens the power delivery compared to Harley-Davidson's previous large-capacity touring engines. Extensive Factory Equipment – Unlike standard touring models that are often customized after purchase, the CVO models arrive with premium audio systems, upgraded finishes, advanced electronics, and exclusive components already fitted. Premium Paint and Finish Quality – The multi-layer paint schemes, intricate graphics, and detailing are among the most elaborate finishes Harley-Davidson applies to production motorcycles. Advanced Touring Technology – Features such as the large TFT display, navigation, ride modes, adaptive rider aids, premium audio systems, and smartphone connectivity form a substantial part of the ownership experience. Long-Distance Comfort Remains a Core Focus – The seating position, wind protection, and touring ergonomics are designed around spending extended periods on the road. Strong Highway Stability – Both motorcycles are developed primarily for highway use, where their weight, chassis, and fairing designs contribute to a planted feel. Integrated Luggage and Touring Practicality – Saddlebags are part of the design rather than an accessory, providing useful storage without altering the motorcycle's appearance. Distinctive Presence Compared With Standard Models – Beyond the paintwork, the wheels, trim pieces, finishes, and component choices make the CVO models visually different from standard Street Glide and Road Glide variants. | Striking Custom-Cruiser Styling – The Breakout is built around a long, low silhouette with a wide 240-section rear tyre, stretched fuel tank, and extensive chrome detailing. Its design takes strong inspiration from custom drag-style cruisers. Powerful Milwaukee-Eight 117 Engine – The large V-twin produces substantial torque across the rev range, making acceleration feel effortless without requiring frequent gear changes. Strong Straight-Line Performance – The combination of abundant torque and a low-slung chassis suits relaxed cruising and rapid roll-on acceleration. Premium Fit and Finish – Paint quality, chrome components, switchgear, and overall construction reflect the motorcycle's premium positioning within Harley-Davidson's lineup. Comfortable Solo Riding Position – The low seat height and relaxed ergonomics allow riders to spend extended periods in the saddle without adopting an aggressive posture. Wide Rear Tyre Enhances Road Presence – The massive rear tyre is a defining visual element and contributes to the motorcycle's distinctive stance. Modern Rider Assistance Features – Recent models include ABS, traction control, selectable ride modes, and other electronic rider aids integrated into the Softail platform. Strong Customisation Potential – Like many Harley-Davidsons, the Breakout serves as a popular base for aftermarket modifications and personalization. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed manual |
